Medics demand ‘urgent’ review of suicide care

A leading medical group has stood by its claim that dozens of people are dying by suicide every year because they cannot access services — insisting officials must open an “urgent” review into the crisis.

The Psychiatric Nurses Association reissued the warning after minister of state with responsibility for mental health, Kathleen Lynch, claimed the inquiry is not needed as there is “no evidence” the deaths are linked to service flaws.

At its annual delegate meeting last week, PNA general secretary Des Kavanagh told frontline workers that dozens of people are losing their lives despite seeking help because they are sent home early from facilities or turned away.